Old Fashioned Fudge

Step back in time and treat yourself to the nostalgic flavors of Old Fashioned Fudge. Rich, creamy, and indulgently sweet, this classic confection is a timeless favorite that evokes memories of simpler times and cozy gatherings. Made with just a handful of ingredients, including rich chocolate and creamy butter, this fudge recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. Whether enjoyed as a special treat for yourself or shared with loved ones, Old Fashioned Fudge is guaranteed to bring joy and delight to every bite.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

1. Medium saucepan
2. Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
3. Candy thermometer (optional)
4. 8×8 inch baking dish
5. Parchment paper or aluminum foil
6. Mixing bowl

Ingredients:

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: Chopped nuts, marshmallows, or other mix-ins of your choice

Directions:

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Set aside.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, whole milk, unsalted butter, and pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook the Fudge: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, continue to cook the fudge, stirring frequently, until it reaches the soft ball stage on a candy thermometer (approximately 235°F or 118°C). If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the fudge by dropping a small amount into a bowl of cold water. It should form a soft ball that flattens when removed from the water.
4. Add Flavorings: Once the fudge reaches the soft ball stage, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If desired, you can also stir in any additional mix-ins such as chopped nuts or marshmallows at this stage.
5. Beat the Fudge: Transfer the hot fudge mixture to a mixing bowl. Using a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula, beat the fudge vigorously until it starts to thicken and lose its glossiness. This process can take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes, so be patient.
6. Pour and Set: Once the fudge has thickened, quickly pour it into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with the back of a spoon or spatula. Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature until set, which can take several hours or overnight.
7. Slice and Serve: Once the fudge has fully set, use the parchment paper or aluminum foil overhang to lift it out of the baking dish. Transfer the fudge to a cutting board and slice it into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. Enjoy the rich and decadent flavors of Old Fashioned Fudge as a delightful treat any time of day.